The City of Gastonia is seeking proposals from qualified organizations to operate a cooling station during the 2026 summer season to provide relief for anyone who needs assistance or relief during periods of extreme heat.
The City is inviting proposals from faith-based, for-profit, nonprofit, or other interested organizations to operate the cooling station. Preference will be given to proposals that include the operation and set up of an indoor facility where individuals can safely escape high temperatures.
Cooling station operations will be activated based on temperatures reported by the National Weather Service. The station will open when temperatures reach or exceed 95°F, as determined by the National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg Forecast Office.
The proposed operational period for the cooling station is June 15 through September 15 with activation occurring on days when the National Weather Service forecasts temperatures of 95 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
Cooling stations provide a safe, air-conditioned environment where individuals can cool down and reduce the risk of heat-related illness during extreme weather conditions.
Organizations interested in operating the cooling station should review the full Request for Proposals (RFP) online. Proposals must be submitted no later than Thursday, April 16 at 2 p.m.
For more information about the RFP or if you have questions, please contact Zsuzsi Kadar at (704) 866-6745 or Danette Dye at (704) 866-6758.
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Gastonia, N.C., just minutes west of Charlotte, is one of the area’s best places to live and work with an ideal combination of location, size and livability. Gastonia is the largest of Gaston County’s 13 municipalities and one of the largest cities in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Selected as an All-America City three times, Gastonia’s desirable quality of life is the result of its beautiful natural surroundings, friendly neighborhoods, responsive government and vibrant business environment.